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July 2009

VOLUME 24 NO. 143 FRIDAY JULY 31, 2009

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Increased Charges: Many people remember the rash of thefts, particularly of generators during the period right after Hurricane Ike. The Texas Legislature addressed that issue by increasing the category of offences if the crime is committed in a designated disaster area. District Attorney Mike Little said the offenses of assault, robbery, burglary or theft are increased to one notch, so to speak, if the crime is committed during a disaster within a designated disaster area. The law goes into effect Sept. 1.

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Devers ISD: This coming school year, the top-rated Devers School District will allow student transfers from outside the district. Devers School Board President Robert Kirkland said that means students who do not live in the district, can transfer to the small academically exemplary district, though their parents or guardians will be responsible for transportation. For information, contact Devers ISD at 549-7135.

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Dixie League: The Liberty Belles Softball Team games at the Dixie League World Series in Sumter, South Carolina will be broadcast online. You can access the internet site, Jock Jive, by going to our site www.kshn.com and click on the Dixie League World Series logo. From there, click on the state you want, which is South Carolina. The next page is a long list of scheduled games. Go down to Texas vs. North Carolina. Click on that line, and it will pull up the game. The Texas vs. North Carolina game will be broadcast 1 pm, Texas time on Saturday.

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LISD Press Box: Yesterday in a noon meeting, Liberty School Trustees considered bids from nine companies for the construction of the new press box and American disability structure upgrades to the stadium. We have reported the press box was blown from atop of the stadium by last year's hurricane. Thursday, the school board awarded the contract for the entire project to Bruce General Construction of Beaumont at a cost $372,151. The board does plan for Bruce Construction to complete the ADA upgrades to the stadium before the football season begins. The builders will go to work on the new press box when the Panthers home season ends in early November.

DUI Law Change: District Attorney Mike Little said a change to the current Texas DUI laws allows a blood sample to be drawn without consent or a warrant. The arresting officer can have a blood sample drawn if the officer believes an injury has occurred due to driving under the influence of alcohol, if the suspected driver has a child passenger in the vehicle or if the driver has 2 prior DUI convictions. That new law takes effect on September 1.

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Three Arrested: Liberty County Sheriff's Deputies attempted to serve an arrest warrant at a residence in Hardin Tuesday morning, only to have the suspect flee from the home into the woods. Sheriff's Department Public Information Officer Steve Green said TDCJ tracking dogs located Timothy Svatek, 32 after about 20 minutes. Svatek faces charges of Engaging in Organized Crime and Felony Theft in Hardin County and a new charge of Evading Arrest. Deputies also arrested other people inside the residence, Robert Curtis Smith and Sharla Cheree Gordon for Hindering Apprehension.

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Drill Team: The Liberty County 4-H Mounted Drill Team won the State Championship in fast freestyle drill Monday, then, placed third in the precision riding competition Wednesday morning. The local team's longtime drillmaster, Tommy Small, said the 4-H kids beat the other teams by 11 points in the fast freestyle drill. Since 2003, this local team has won the state championship; in either fast freestyle or precision, in 2007, they won both events at the state finals.

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Dayton Chamber: The Dayton Chamber of Commerce Monthly Noon Luncheon is Tuesday at First United Methodist Church in Dayton. Guest speaker is Dayton Community Development Corporation Executive Director Chris Potter. The Branding Iron Restaurant will cater lunch. The cost is $10. For reservations, call the Dayton Chamber of Commerce Office by Monday at 936-257-2393.

Commissioners: Yesterday, Liberty County Commissioners voted to hold the salaries and expenses of all Liberty County elected officials at the same level as the last budget year. Justice of the Peace #1, Bobby Rader, Justice of the Peace #2 Ronnie Davis and Precinct 3 Justice of the Peace Cody Parrish all filed a request with the judge that their salaries be increased by $4302 per year rather than held at last year's rates. Those requests were in response to the judge's letter notifying all elected officials of his intent to propose holding salaries at last year's level. During yesterday's meeting, commissioners approved the salaries and expenses of elected county officials at the same pay as the 2009 budget year. Nine people were appointed to a grievance committee at yesterday's meeting to hear the complaints of the three elected officials. That committee will meet next Tuesday at 10 a.m. in the Liberty County Law Library Courtroom.

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Robbery: Two Liberty men, 21 year old Albert Jackson III and Caleb Jackson, age 20 were arrested and charged with a second-degree felony. Liberty Police Det. Chip Fairchild said the two men allegedly assaulted 18-year-old Chris Halstead after he confronted the men as they were allegedly stealing a deer feeder from his family's property. The victim is o.k. but did seek medical treatment for the wounds he received. Precinct 1 Justice of the Peace Bobby Rader set bond at $50,000 each. The two men remain in jail.

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Burn Ban: Acting on the suggestion of County Fire Marshal Jim Wilson, Liberty County Commissioners continued the countywide ban on outdoor burning.

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Cash for Clunkers: The federal cash for clunker program, officially called the car allowance rebate system is now under way. Tim Wells, Finance Director at Liberty-Dayton Chrysler said cars and trucks qualify for rebates based on age and fuel economy. The program is only good when purchasing or leasing a vehicle less than $45,000. Robert Dunn, co-owner of BJ Ford said while information is available on line, it might be easier to see your local dealer to learn what is available based on the specific trade and new vehicle the customer likes. Information is available on our website, www.kshn.com. Click on the government link.

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*LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.76 ASL*

VOLUME 24 NO. 140 TUESDAY JULY 28, 2009

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Indictment: Pamela Leggett, the Baytown woman arrested during an incident that led to the death of Chambers County Sheriffs Deputy Shane Detwiler, now faces 14 felony charges, all for possession of prohibited weapons – 8 for possession of fragmentation type hand grenades and 6 for possession of homemade bombs called "tennis ball" grenades. Information indicates Pamela Leggett is still charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon but has not been indicted on that charge. Chambers County Sheriff Joe LaRIve said two federal agencies, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms are assisting in the investigation.

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Wreck: Shortly after noon yesterday, Dawn Holland of Liberty was air lifted to a Houston hospital after she broke her arm in a two-vehicle wreck, with a nearby neighbor she had never met. Liberty police say Dawn Holland and Trisha Butler both live in the 100 block of Mimosa Street, however they never met until they wrecked, nearly head on Minglewood Road. Police say Trisha Butler was cited for failure to yield the right of way.

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Fire: A lightening strike is said to be the cause of a fire in Hardin Saturday afternoon that destroyed the inside of a house owned by Ron Forrester. A mother and child occupied the home, however nobody was home and no injuries were reported. Hardin Vol. Captain Harry Ullery said lightening struck a tree near the home and traveled along the power lines to the house.

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Evacuation Order: The Texas Legislature has given county judges and mayors the authority to use "reasonable force" to compel people to leave an area during mandatory evacuations under disaster conditions. The law, which takes effect September 1, also holds those who ignore mandatory orders civilly liable for the cost of rescue efforts conducted by a governmental agency or cooperating non-profit entity. Liberty County Judge Phil Fitzgerald said he hopes there is not another hurricane, but if there is, the judge urges folks to comply so this new legal authority would not be necessary locally.

Hurricane Season: While the 2009 hurricane season began two months ago, the Atlantic basin has not yet experienced a named storm. Compare that to last year's season, which produced four named storms by July 25. Despite the inactivity so far this year, Liberty County Emergency Management Coordinator Tom Branch reminds folks August and September are historically the most active months for tropical storms. Those who live in an evacuation zone should learn the best route for their location and discuss evacuation plans with their family. For preparedness tips and weather information, go to our website – www.kshn.com – and click on the weather links.

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Akins Jail Complaint: Ray Akins was indicted by a grand jury for tampering with governmental documents and held in the Liberty County jail for several days in early July until he was released on $100,000 bond. Since his release, Ray Akins has sent e-mails – first to the Cleveland Advocate newspaper editor and later to Sheriff Henry Patterson – alleging mistreatment. Jail Warden Tim New, an employee of Civigenics which operates the jail for the county, disputes Akin's claims. The warden showed KSHN jail and nursing logs that contradict the allegations made by Akins. The sheriff said these e-mails don't constitute a formal complaint because they don't contain a signature, but he asked the warden review the claims anyway.

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Liberty Panthers: All Liberty High School football and volleyball players must have a completed physical before practices begin. Liberty's Head Athletic Trainer Dustin Swaim says those who do not have their physicals yet can go to Liberty Medical Surgical Clinic tomorrow or Firm Foundations Clinic Thursday to get a physical for $24. Students should call one of the clinics first for an appointment. For information, call Athletic Director Shane Deel at 979-422-3026.

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Dayton Tickets: Season tickets for the four Dayton Bronco home games go on sale for current ticket holders next Monday. Bronco fans interested in becoming season ticket holders for the first time can get their tickets starting August 17. Reserved seats are $6 each or $24 for the season. Tickets are available at the Dayton ISD administration building at 100 Cherry Creek Road weekdays from 9 to 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 to 4 p.m.

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*LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.69 ASL*

VOLUME 24 NO. 140 FRIDAY JULY 24, 2009

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Man Drowns: A 47-year-old man, Bruce Payne, of Cleveland, is believed to have drowned in a pond behind his home in the overnight hours of Tuesday or Wednesday morning. According to Steve Green, public information officer for the Liberty County Sheriffs Department, Mr. Payne was found by a family member Wednesday afternoon in the pond, after last being seen Tuesday evening around 10:30. Justice of the Peace Pct. #6 Peggy Dunn held an inquest at the scene.

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TxDot and FM 1413: While speaking at the Liberty Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce Monthly Luncheon, TxDot Engineer Dave Maxedon said when working on the 2nd phase of the Hwy 146 widening project, they would also realign FM 1413. Once completed, FM 1413 would intersect with Hwy 146 about 2,800 feet south of its current location, away from the drainage canal and ditch that borders the road on either side. He also said Angel Bro. Construction from Baytown said although the contract for completion of the first phase of Hwy 146, from US 90 in Dayton to FM 1413 allows for 21 months completing, they believe they could finish the job in just 12 months. Work on that first section is set to begin August 1.

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SJE New Assistant Principal: Liberty ISD trustees have created a new position with the hiring of Crystal Mayes as assistant principal for San Jacinto Elementary School. Her duties will include curriculum and technology. Superintendent Cynthia Lusignolo said that also benefits Liberty Elementary School by allowing a curriculum director that has handled both campuses to just focus on LES students.

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Girl Scouts: The local Girl Scouts are having a sign up tomorrow from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Company Coffeehouse and Book Café on S.H. 146 in Dayton. Membership in Girl Scouts is $12 a year and is open to girls ages 5 to 17. For information, call Margaret Beegle at 713 292 0307.

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Paul Harris Fellow: Jana Buchanan, part of the ownership family of KSHN Radio, was honored Tuesday by Liberty Rotary Club as a Paul Harris Fellow after a gift was made in her name to the Rotary Foundation. That group helps finance many of the works the 1.3 million Rotarians do around the world.

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*LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.76 ASL*

VOLUME 24 NO. 139 THURSDAY JULY 23, 2009

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Fire Destroys Home: No one was hurt but fire destroyed a home on FM 770 in Raywood early yesterday morning. Liberty County Fire Marshal Jim Wilson said no one was inside the roughly 1600 square foot brick home when the fire started Wednesday around 5:30 a.m. The County Fire Marshal said it appears an unattended kitchen stove is where the blaze began. Fire fighters from Hull-Daisetta, Liberty, Devers and Hardin fought the flames but the home and all of its contents were destroyed.

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Dayton City Council: Monday night Dayton City Council accepted a bid of $877,000 from Conn's Construction of Conroe for installation of new sewer lift stations. Included in that bid is an extra $100,000 for a grinder to deal with the large debris flushed down the toilets of the women's prison units daily. We reported on that problem a while back and Dayton City Manager David Douglas said TDCJ officials indicated the preferred to have the city install the grinder and attach a surcharge estimated at $2,900 a month to the prison sewer bill. David Douglas said the surcharge would be in effect for 15 yrs.

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Dayton School Board: The Dayton School Board Tuesday night approved the purchase of 57 computers for the Richter Elementary campus. Technology Director Suzanne Chachere said the computer equipment on the Richter campus is the oldest in the district and badly in need of replacement. Fifty of those will go to instructional staff and the remainder will go to office staff. The price tag for the 57 computers is a little over $50,000.

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Freshman Football: Liberty Freshman interested in playing football for the Panthers need to be at the High School Monday at 9:30 a.m. for a head start Freshman football camp. Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Shane Deel said those who have not registered yet should be there at 9 a.m. with a parent so registration papers can be completed. Liberty Panther's should report Monday Aug. 3 at 6 a.m. to start two a day practices. For information, call Coach Deel at 979 422 3026.

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Funerals: Joe Ernest Greak, 83 formerly of Raywood. Private services are under the direction of Allison Funeral Service of Liberty. ****************************************************

*LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.73 ASL*

VOLUME 24 NO. 138 WEDNESDAY JULY 22, 2009

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Hospital: Once approved by all the parties and their respective attorneys, the Liberty County Hospital District and the TI Group, have an agreement that would make the hospital district the owners of the hospital building, land and equipment, while TI group would gain ownership of the hospital license and critical access designation. The $2.6 million price tag would be split evenly between the Hospital District and TI Group.

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VA Van Trips: The Liberty County Veteran Services Office is expanding its free van service that transports area veterans to the Michael E. DeBakey V.A. Medical Center in Houston. According to Richard Ayers, Liberty County Veterans Service Officer, starting Aug. 6, a van will take veterans from Cleveland to that V.A. Medical Center each Tuesday. For information, call the Cleveland office at 281-593-8402 or 336-4558 ext. 235.

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Dayton Council: The Dayton City Council voted Monday night to accept a settlement offer over a drainage easement dispute between the city and property owner Oliver Damek. We reported the city and Mr. Damek had agreed on a price for a 40-foot drainage ditch. Last month city council was told Mr. Damek wanted the dirt from the ditch deposited on that easement, limiting the width of the ditch to just 20 feet. Monday night, council agreed to truck the dirt from the drainage ditch to a place of Mr. Damek's choosing. City Manager David Douglas said Mr. Damek keeps his dirt, and the city gets the ditch it paid for.

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Immunization Clinics: Texas Department of State Health Services is holding two free clinics next month to provide kindergarten and 7th grade students with the new state required vaccinations. The first will be from 10 am until 4pm Tuesday Aug. 4th at 501 Palmer in Liberty. The second is at the Tarkington Community Center Friday August 7th again from 10 am to 4 pm. For information, call 281 592 6714.

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Funerals: Anna May Gilbert Stevenson, 69 of Dayton. Memorial service Saturday 10 a.m. at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home in Dayton. Roy Gene Bruce, 68 of Devers. Services today 2 p.m. at Allison Funeral Service in Liberty. Gary Lynn Fowler, 53 of Saratoga. Services 2 p.m. tomorrow at Faith and Family Funeral Service in Batson

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*LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.68 ASL*

VOLUME 24 NO. 137 TUESDAY JULY 21, 2009

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Theft: Yesterday, acting on information and a search warrant, the Liberty County Sheriffs Department recovered several thousands of dollars worth of stolen property in a home on FM 1413. Recovered were several flat screen televisions, computers and monitors, 15-20 weapons, as well as marijuana and cash. Law enforcement officials say they feel they have broken up a theft ring and more charges could be forth coming. The investigation continues.

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Sharks in the Trinity: Larry Wilburn, host of Outdoor Update heard on KSHN each Thursday and Friday said recently there have been reports of Bull Sharks trolling the Trinity River. He said one of his friends unintentionally snagged a Bull Shark in the river, near the U.S. 90 Bridge in Liberty while using a trotline to catch catfish. Texas Game Warden Danny Diaz said while he has heard reports, he has never personally observed one further north than the mouth of the river near Anahuac. Trinity River National Wildlife Refuge Manager Stuart Marcus said it is possible given the low water levels with the resulting increase in salinity levels.

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Hunter Education: A state required hunter education class is being offered this Friday night, 6 pm to 10 pm and Saturday 8 am to 5 pm at Liberty Municipal Library. All hunters born on or after September 2, 1971 must successfully complete a training course or be accompanied by a qualifying hunter. Kids must be at least 9 to earn their certification. For information, call 281-757-6950 or 334-4603.

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Vanity Plates: As you may know, a variety of specialized vehicle license plates are available to Texans, everything from plates denoting membership in the master gardeners to those signifying service in various military conflicts. Liberty County Tax Assessor /Collector Mark McClelland said they do not keep those on hand, but the state will send them to his office for pick up by those who apply for them. He said they cost about $30 more than the standard vehicle license plate. To find out more call 336-8683.

Junior Olympics: Two Dayton teens have qualified for the United States of America Track and Field Junior Olympics coming up July 28 – Aug. 2 in Greensboro, North Carolina. Recent Dayton High School graduate Cameron Lacour has qualified in the 110-meter hurdles and the 4x100 sprint relay. Incoming Dayton High School freshman Matthew Oubre will compete in both the shot put and discuss throw.

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Motel on Hold: Current economic conditions have derailed a 76-room Holiday Inn Express motel planned for Highway 90 in Liberty. A family partnership, led by Andy Leva of Jasper, originally planned construction to begin in January. Then as the economic picture dulled, that was delayed until March, which didn't happen either. Now, the project is on hold until a friendlier economic climate makes the multi-million dollar project feasible. When built, the motel will be located just east of the Texas Farm Bureau at U.S. 90 at Layl Drive.

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Hunger Buster: The Liberty ISD summer feeding program, known as Hunger Busters, is now serving more than 400 free meals to kids from birth through age 18 each weekday. In addition to serving free lunches Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the San Jacinto Elementary campus, eight local churches are serving as satellite locations. Something new – LISD is now using a district van to drop off meals weekdays at 12:30 p.m. to kids playing at Liberty Municipal Park. For information, call 936-336-7213 or 936-336-4558, ext. 221.

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Chamber Fund Raiser: The Liberty-Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce's biggest fund raiser of the year is less than three weeks away. The popular 500 drawing, auction and steak dinner is Thursday, August 6, at 6 p.m. at Liberty Elk's Lodge on FM 563. The Liberty-Dayton 500 reverse drawing will award 12 raffle prizes with a combined value of more than $13,300. The top prize, a 2009 Polaris Ranger, is currently on display at Liberty-Dayton Chrysler. Raffle tickets are $50 and include one steak dinner. For tickets, call the Chamber at 936-336-5736.

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Funerals: Bertie Lois McDonald Harmon, 93. Services are tomorrow at 10 a.m. with visitation today from 5 to 8 p.m. at Sterling Funeral Home of Dayton.

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*LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.63 ASL*

VOLUME 24 NO. 135 FRIDAY JULY 17, 2009

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Burglary: Liberty Police are investigating what they describe as a unique burglary at Liberty Food Mart on Virginia St. Liberty Police Officer Hugh Bishop said entry was made through the back wall of the store, where those responsible were hidden from view, and once inside they used a cutting torch to gain access to a safe. Along with the other missing items, video surveillance equipment was also stolen. An undisclosed amount of jewelry, cash and cigarettes were taken from the store and its safe. Anyone with information can call the Liberty Police anonymously at 936-336-5666.

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Minimum Wage: A reminder to employers and employees, July 24 the federal minimum wage increases to $7.25 an hour. U.S. Department of Labor officials remind employers subject to the F.L.S.A.'s minimum wage provisions they must post a notice explaining the act. For information, call the wage and hour divisions' toll-free helpline at 866-487-9243.

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100 Club Donations: The 100 Club in Houston's Executive Director Rick Hartley, a former Liberty County resident, said a check for $10,000 has been presented to the family of fallen Chambers County Deputy Sheriff Shane Detwiler. That money he said is to assist with immediate financial needs and additional assistance will provided following a review of their needs. Currently the 100 Club is accepting donations for its survivor's fund. 100% of all donations to the survivors fund go to the families of officers killed in the line of duty. To make a donation, go to www.kshn.com and click on the organizations link. The 100 Club's website is linked from there.

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Burnham Classic: The 20th Annual Burnham Classic Golf Tournament is coming up Aug 7 through 9th at the Magnolia Ridge Country Club. It is a great local event for golfers and those who enjoy the social event. This event benefits the physically handicapped and mentally challenged of Liberty County through the Tri-County MHMR. For info. Call 336-2215.

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Funerals: John Howard Pfardrescher Jr, 75 of Dayton. Services today 10 a.m. at First United Methodist Church of Dayton. John Curtis Beard, 84 of Liberty. Services 11 a.m. tomorrow at Berean Tabernacle Baptist Church in Liberty.

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*LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.36 ASL*

VOLUME 24 NO. 134 THURSDAY JULY 16, 2009

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Liberty City Council: The Liberty City Council held their first meeting Tuesday night with acting city manager Larry Shaw sitting at the council table. Council authorized Shaw to publish an advertisement in a number of different publications across the state announcing the vacant city manager's position. The ad sets a September 11 deadline for candidates to submit resumes, but could change if it does not fit in with publication schedules for some of the organizations they will be targeting.

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Chambers County Update: Investigations and a preliminary autopsy result indicates Gilbert Ortez, the man believed to have murdered Chambers County Deputy Shane Detwiler, died from a self inflicted gunshot wound. Officers spent the day Tuesday in the gunman's Chambers County home, in Baytown. During that time, they carried away several weapons and recovered numerous pipe bombs and other explosive devices.

Car vs. Cow: There were no serious injuries when a small car hit a cow on FM 563. According to Liberty Police Officer Hugh Bishop, it was around 4:30 a.m. yesterday when Gurmet Sidhu, 58 of Humble hit the cow near the city limits. Officer Bishop said the 2008 compact car was heavily damaged, and the cow's owner was cited for allowing cattle to roam at large.

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Burn Ban: Liberty County remains under a countywide burn ban, and residents who have been given a warning for violating the ban, should not expect any more warnings. Liberty Co. Chief Deputy Ken DeFoor said county dispatchers are dealing with from seven to 10 violations every day, and many have spread beyond the control of the person who set the blaze. So now, the warnings have ended and those who violate the ban can expect to get a ticket with fines up to $500.

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Funerals: Chambers County Deputy Sheriff Shane Thomas Detwiler, 31 of Baytown. Services tomorrow 10 a.m. At the large Maranatha Church on Hwy. 146 in Mont Belvieu.

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*LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.25 ASL*

VOLUME 24 NO. 133 WEDNESDAY JULY 15, 2009

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Commissioners: Yesterday, Liberty County Commissioners approved applying for a grant from the Federal Government that would, if approved, help fund a loop around the city of Dayton. The loop would go from FM 1409 south of Dayton, around the west side joining Highway 321 north of the city. Over highways 146, 90 and FM 1960 would be toll road overpasses. These would allow local residents to get off the loop and not pay a toll, while through traffic could opt to pay and make it around Dayton at a faster rate. The majority, if not all tolls would stay in Liberty County through the county's toll road authority to be used for other road projects. The grant amount the county is requesting is $40 million through what is called a Tiger Grant for Surface Transportation.

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Deputy Killed: The man alleged to have shot and killed Chambers County Deputy Shane Detwiler, was found dead Monday night inside the home he had barricaded himself in for several hours after the initial shooting. Gilbert Ortez Jr., is a former reserve officer for Kenefick Police Department. It was around 7:30 when Ortez was found shot to death in the trailer near the Houston Raceway Park in Baytown. No word if his gunshot was self inflicted or from police gunfire. Shane Detwiler was the father of 3, and a decorated Iraqi war Army Sergeant.

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County Judge Candidate: On his 54th birthday yesterday, long time Dayton community activist Jay Knight revealed after several years of consideration, he would be a republican candidate for Liberty County Judge in 2010. Jay was elected to his first term as a member of Dayton City Council in May of this year.

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UM Army: Sixty-three teens and adults have traveled to Liberty with the purpose of serving others. The United Methodist Action Reach-Out Mission by Youth, better known as UM Army, is here to make repairs to homes and build things like wheel chair ramps and porches for low-income and disabled homeowners. For information, call the First United Methodist Church in Liberty at 936-336-6401.

Chambers Co. Deputy Killed: A Chambers County Seriff's Deputy was killed in a shoot out yesterday morning at a trailer park near the Houston Raceway Park in the Chambers County portion of Baytown. Deputy Shane Detwiler had gone to work for Chambers County in only that last few months after several years working as a Game Warden for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. The veteran lawman was the father oment. The veteran lawman was the father of three small children. A former reserve officer for Kenefick PD is said to be the shooter.

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Murder Victim Identified: The Liberty Police Department has identified the Hispanic man killed July 4 as Juan Antonio Romero, thought to be about 30 years old. Mr. Romero was in the country illegally, and so far, authorities have been unable to locate any family members. He was shot and killed at a party on Missouri Street. Police are still trying to locate murder suspect Alberto Sanchez, also said to be here illegally.

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Randolph Sentenced: Former Precinct 3 Constable Leon Randolph was sentenced late last week for his recent felony conviction for the theft of an Ameri-Tech trailer. He was found guilty two weeks ago by a jury in Judge C.T. "Rusty" Hights' 75th District courtroom of the state jail felony. District Attorney Mike Little said Leon Randolph was given a two year probated 180-day jail sentence for that theft conviction.

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Save on Energy: The summer heat is on, and power company Entergy Texas, is unveiling a new web site designed to offer helpful tips to lower monthly energy bills. First, adjust your thermostat, A/C and heating can account for as much as 55 % of a monthly bill. Setting the thermostat to 78 degrees is an easy way to reduce usage. Washing clothes in cold water and running the dishwasher only when full can also save power use. To learn more, go to www.entergyanswers.com

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Twitter Scams: It is the latest in online social networking, Twitter, so it is not surprising that crooks are using the site as well. Debbie Bridgeman with the Better Business Bureau said the swindle tells folks they can make a lot of money working at home, but instead could end up paying money. Buried in the fine print are fees of up to $99 a month.

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*LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.40 ASL*

VOLUME 24 NO. 131 MONDAY JULY 13, 2009

Internal Investigation: An internal investigation into a complaint against Liberty County Sheriff's Captain Harry Kelly has resulted in a recommendation of disciplinary action. Captain Kelly has admitted to sending an anonymous fax making accusations against new Cleveland Police Chief Mark Bradshaw. Harry Kelly was a longtime employee of the Cleveland PD before joining the LCSO when Henry Patterson was elected sheriff. Capt Kelly reportedly applied for that Cleveland police chief position. On Sunday, Sheriff Patterson said the investigation remains open because of new allegations that surfaced late Friday against his longtime friend, Harry Kelly. That matter is being investigated by Sheriff's Capt. Jim Cooper.

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Dealership Closes: Liberty-Dayton GM Auto World has closed its doors. Last month, the local car dealership announced it was cutting itself away from General Motors and was going to become a full-service used car facility. Then on Friday, the dealership, owned by basketball legend Elvin Hayes and his partner Victor Wright, closed its doors permanently.

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Liberty PD: New Liberty Police Chief Billy Tidwell has added three familiar names to his ranks. Former Liberty officers Larry Beard and Hugh Bishop have returned to the Liberty Police Department. Also joining Liberty PD as an investigator is former sheriff's Captain Chip Fairchild.

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Sales Taxes: Sales tax collections across Texas are down for the fifth consecutive month. In Liberty and Chambers counties, sales tax incomes are strongest in the cities of Cleveland, Liberty and Anahuac. All other cities in the two counties are experiencing year-to-date decreases with Devers and Mont Belvieu declining more than 25 percent for 2009.

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Defoor Resigns: Ken Defoor has resigned effective Friday, July 17, from his interim position as chief deputy of the Liberty County Sheriff's Department. The position was always temporary, and now the longtime law enforcement professional says he plans to volunteer for Texas Equu-Search.

Dayton Economic Development: Since its inception, Executive Director Chris Potter said the Dayton Community Development Corporation has assisted in securing more than 130 jobs in Dayton with an economic impact of more than $28 million. Dayton voters passed a ½-cent sales tax and since that time, the money has gone to many different economic development endeavors under the direction of the DCDC. A couple of new projects looking at the Dayton community include a $ 1.2 million retail center on highway 90 as well as an oilfield fabrication services with an expected 30 jobs being created.

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New Vaccine Requirements: The State of Texas has added new vaccination requirements for kids entering kindergarten and those beginning 7th grade in the coming school year. According to Kay Strattman, Lead Nurse for the Dayton School District, the statewide requirements for new kindergartners now includes additional chicken pox, mumps, measles, and hepatitis vaccines. Seventh graders will need a shot for bacterial meningitis and a "TDP" booster against tetanus, diphtheria and "Whooping Cough". Confirmation of these immunizations will need to be turned in before the first day of school.

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LISD Mission: New LISD Superintendent Cynthia Lusignolo said she and LISD Trustees are planning a facilities and technology study. She said the analysis is to ensure the district is doing everything it can to meet their mission, help students reach their fullest potential. The study will be conducted to make sure the district has the needed equipment conducive to learning.

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Gardening Class: The Liberty County AgriLife Extension Services and the Liberty County Master Gardener Association will host a free fall vegetable program Thursday July 16 at 6 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Dayton. Make reservations by calling 336-4558 ext. 221.

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Chamber Luncheon: The Liberty Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce Monthly Luncheon is next Wednesday, July 15 at the Liberty Center at noon. Speakers will be John Sudela and Don Maxedon from the Texas Department of Transportation. Cookies Soul Food Kitchen in Ames will cater lunch. Make reservations by calling the chamber office at 936 336 5736.

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*LAKE RELEASE: 2,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.85 ASL*

VOLUME 24 NO. 129 THURSDAY JULY 9, 2009

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DTV Troubles: More than a month after the federally mandated transition from analog to digital television, many in our area who have their televisions connected to antennas and converter boxes are not receiving most of the channels they did before the transition. If you are having trouble receiving stations that you previously received, e-mail us at kshn@kshn.com or call 936 336 5793. We will forward that information to television stations to help in their efforts to improve signals to our area. It will also help them petition the government for more output power. We will also pass the information on to our local U.S. congressional representative.

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Hulsey: Tuesday June 29, Liberty County Commissioners appointed Les Hulsey Constable Pct. 2 to fill out the term of Russell Pierce. Precinct 2 Liberty County Constable Russell Pierce died June 22 following a year long battle with colon cancer. Russell Pierce was 55. Les Hulsey will fill the position until the next general election in November 2010.

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Bronze Star: Army Staff Sgt. James Oreschnigg was recently awarded a bronze star for outstanding service with the 44th Expeditionary Signal Battalion in Iraq. He coordinated movement of equipment and personnel and through his efforts created a computerized tracking program to assist in support of ongoing combat operations. The system is said to be extremely effective and is now used as the standard of operation for the 18th MP brigade, and the 18th airborne corp. Sgt. Oreschinigg's father is Herbert Oreschnigg of Liberty. His mother, Rhonda Oreschnigg lives in Houston.

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Bus Trip: Reservations are being taken for the July 23 bus trip to Grand Coushatta Resort and Casino in Kinder, Louisiana. The Liberty Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce sponsors the trips on the First Class Tours coach. A round trip ticket is $15. Call 936 336 5736 by next Wednesday to make reservations.

Dayton City Council: Monday night, the Dayton City Council authorized City Attorney Randy Gunter to proceed with legal action to enforce a drainage easement the city paid for some nine months ago. Dayton City Manager David Douglas said property owner Oliver Damek agreed on $15,000 for a 40-foot drainage ditch across his property just west of Rolke Road. City officials say now Mr. Damek has instructed them to put all spoilage from the ditch digging on that easement, limiting the width to only 20 feet. Mr. Douglas said that is not what the city paid for.

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Interim City Manager: A retired city manager from Duncanville Texas, Larry Shaw has worked as an interim city manager for Hamilton, Paris and Springtown Texas. Now interim manager for the City of Liberty, Larry Shaw said his primary role is to assist in finding a new permanent manager as well as working on the upcoming budget.

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Wreck: Life Flight Air Ambulance took a retired local police officer, Paul Lognion, 79, to Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston with what was described as non-life threatening injuries yesterday afternoon following a wreck on Main St. Liberty Police Sgt. David Hunter said Mr. Lognion pulled out of the Chinese Wok parking lot and into the path of a pickup truck going north on Main. The other driver was not hurt.

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Tree Care: The Liberty County Agri-Life Extension Service and Liberty County Master Gardeners Association are sponsoring a free tree care seminar tomorrow from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Dayton High School Ag shop. Extension Forestry Specialist Dr. Eric Taylor will identify common environmental, insect and disease stressors of trees. The program will also offer strategies to maintain healthy trees during times of drought.

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Historical Commission: The Liberty County Historical Commission is hosting an autograph party for Jim Woodrick Monday at 7 p.m. in the fellowship hall of St. Stephen's Episcopal Church in Liberty. The author will speak about his book "Elusive Dreams: Early Exploration and Colonization of the upper Texas Coast." Copies of the book will be available for sale at the event. Proceeds from the sale of the book will benefit the local historical commission.

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*LAKE RELEASE: 2,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.84 ASL*

VOLUME 24 NO. 127 TUESDAY JULY 7, 2009

Shepherd Bank Robbery: No arrests yet in the investigation of a Shepherd Bank robbery that led to a search of a Cleveland area last Friday. The suspects fled the scene of the robbery Friday morning then wrecked in the City of Cleveland. According to Shepherd City Police Chief Chris Simmons, a suspect has been identified and they know the identity of two others termed "persons of interest". At least one arrest could come soon.

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Update on Shooting: Police have identified a man who was shot in the leg early Saturday morning during an altercation that also claimed the life of a still unidentified Hispanic man. According to Liberty Police Public Information Officer Hugh Bishop, Homero Guzman was shot in the leg with a small caliber weapon during a party at a home on Missouri street in Liberty. Guzman was treated and released from Liberty Dayton Community Hospital. Police are still trying to locate suspect Alberto Sanchez. The suspect is described as being about 5'6" tall with a medium build, dark hair with a mustache and goatee. Police say their suspect is driving a 2006 silver dodge extended cab pickup with custom aluminum wheels, a bed cover plus a figurine of Death hanging from the mirror or on the dash. The license plate is 81K-ZM. Sanchez is said to be armed and dangerous. Anyone with information is asked to call Liberty Police at 336-5666.

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New Industry: According to Dayton City Manager David Douglas, a new fabrication yard should be up and running in Dayton by late fall. Alvin Comier, of Dayton already has a successful fabrication yard in Orange and has applied to the Dayton Community Development Corporation for a $25,000 grant for his new location south of Dayton on State Highway 146. The new building for the company will be approximately 20,000 square feet and the company, Critical Path Resources, is expected to employ about 20 people.

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S.N.A.P.: The Spay and Neutering Assistance Program, or SNAP will be back in Liberty County this month and increasing the number of visits from the three trips to four. The big, colorful SNAP van will be at Peoples Building Center in Dayton Monday July 13. Wednesday July 15, SNAP will be in Cleveland at Stancil Park. The next SNAP visit is in Liberty Tuesday July 21 at the Media Publishing Parking lot on Main St.

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*LAKE RELEASE: 2,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.73 ASL*

VOLUME 24 NO. 126 MONDAY JULY 6, 2009

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Liberty Murder: Liberty Police have issued a statewide alert for a murder suspect. He is Alberto Sanchez, driving a 2006 silver Dodge truck, license plate 81K-ZM9. Liberty Police Officer Hugh Bishop said Sanchez is accused of one murder and wounding another on Missouri Street at 12:30 a.m. Saturday. Victims have not been identified. Alberto Sanchez is described as a Hispanic male, late 20's or early 30's. He's about 5'6" with a medium build and a dark mustache and goatee. Alberto Sanchez is armed and dangerous. Anyone with information should call Liberty PD at 336-5666.

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Motorcycle Wreck: A Saturday morning motorcycle wreck in Devers claimed the life of Amanda Harwell, 35, of Knights Forest. The driver, Thomas Harwell, was airlifted to a Houston hospital with major bone fractures in his leg. The DPS report says the motorcycle tried to pass, but oncoming traffic forced it back. That is when the bike clipped a truck and wrecked.

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Marijuana Bust: An estimated $40,000 in bundled marijuana was seized during a Friday traffic stop on I-10 in Chambers County. The driver Ricky Lewis, 36, of Tenn. is in custody.

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Dress Rehearsal: The state champion Liberty County 4-H Horse Mounted Drill Team will hold its annual dress rehearsal tomorrow at 7 p.m. at TVE. The public is invited to the free event on FM 563 – one mile south of U.S. 90 in Liberty.

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Correction: Thursday's Radiogram incorrectly reported the projected revenue for Dayton ISD. We should have stated, projected revenue is 33 million. However, with the fund balance of $11 million, DISD officials say the projected budget deficit would easily be absorbed and leave a balance of over $8 million.

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Funerals: Edward "Buster" Webb, 81, of Liberty. Services 10 a.m. today at Faith and Family. Charles N. Mouton, 71, of Raywood. Services 11 a.m. Wednesday with visitation starting at 8 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic under direction of Wells. Sherwood Blair, 94, of Hankamer. Service tomorrow at 10 a.m. in Anahuac Cemetery under direction of Sterling. Lee McAlister Ezer, 74, of Anahuac. Service 10 a.m. today at First United Methodist in Anahuac under direction of Sterling.

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*LAKE RELEASE: 2,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.96 ASL*

VOLUME 24 NO. 125 THURSDAY JULY 2, 2009

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Accountability: The State's accountability rating for schools across Texas will not be released until July 31, however new Liberty Independent School District Superintendent Cynthia Lusignolo said preliminary scores look good for all four schools. She said the ratings show the district as a whole and all four campuses will each be ranked acceptable for the 2008-2009 school year.

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Dayton School Board: Tuesday night the Dayton School Board approved the expenditure side of the 2009-2010 budget. The new budget, according to Tami Pierce Assistant Superintendent for Finance, is based on expenditures of $34.4 million and revenues of around $44 million. The school district enters the new fiscal year with a fund balance of around $11 million, which would be reduced by the $1.4 million deficit created by the adopted expenditures budget.

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Closed for the Fourth: City Offices in both Liberty and Dayton, as well as the Liberty County Courthouse will be closed tomorrow in observance of the Independence Day holiday. Waste Management garbage service will run as scheduled in Liberty and Dayton on Friday. All banks and post offices will be open regular hours.

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Tax Credits: The US Government will again be offering a tax credit to those who make energy saving improvements to their homes this year. According to CPA Byron Swaim, the tax credit has gone from 10 % to 30 % of the cost of upgrading home insulation, venting roofs and other additions that make residences more energy efficient. In addition, the cap on those credits has gone from $500 to $1,500.

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Hunger Buster: The Liberty Hunger Buster program keeps growing with more than 500 kids now getting fee lunches each weekday. However, because of the July 4th holiday, no lunches will be served today, tomorrow or Monday. For information on the various locations where lunch is served, or to volunteer call 336-7213 or 336-4558, ext. 221.

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Funerals: John H. Franklin, Jr., 46 of Anahuac. Services tomorrow at 4 p.m. at Sterling Funeral Home in Anahuac.

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*LAKE RELEASE: 2,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.88 ASL*

VOLUME 24 NO. 124 WEDNESDAY JULY 1, 2009

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Liberty City Manager: A surprise announcement from Liberty City Hall with the release of an agenda. A special called council meeting for this Thursday evening calls for an executive session on personnel matters, specifically to discuss a separation agreement with City Manager Ron Wood. When asked if the separation was based on job performance or resulting form the city manager's own wishes, Mayor Carl Pickett declined to comment. City Manager Ron Wood, who has been the city's top administrator since Oct. 2007, said the separation was in the best interest of both the city and him. The special called meeting is Thursday evening at 6 p.m.

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SH 146 Groundbreaking: Tomorrow is the ground breaking on the much-anticipated S.H. 146 expansion project. The Texas Department of Transportation has set the ceremony tomorrow at 10 a.m. in the parking lot at the Woodrow Wilson Junior High School on Highway 146 in Dayton. State Representative John Otto, who has been instrumental in securing funds and approval for this project has been called back to Austin for the special legislative session, but a member of his staff will be on hand along with local officials and representatives from both local chambers of commerce.

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Gas Guzzler: New legislation signed into law this week by President Barrack Obama, offers incentives to trade in gas guzzling vehicles for new fuel-efficient ones. According to local certified public accountant Byron Swaim, the new law provides vouchers for up to $4500 toward a new fuel-efficient vehicle provided the published fuel efficiency of the new vehicle is significantly higher than the trade in.

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Independence Celebration: The City of Liberty's' Independence Day celebration, Friday July 3rd, in the city park will have patriotic music presented by Charlie Grabein's big band and Jimmy Sterling's Invincible Eagle Band. There also will be recognition of veterans, and US Congressman Ted Poe is the featured speaker. The star of the Friday night show is the fireworks display starting around 9 p.m.

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Funerals: John David Porter, 48 of Houston. Graveside services 10 a.m. tomorrow at Reeves Cemetery in Old River.